Sunlight streams through a window warming your back on a chilly day. When it becomes too warm, you pull your sheer curtains closed to soften the sun’s rays, but still enjoy its glow. There’s something magical about the sun’s warm, yellow light that can’t be reproduced by artificial lighting.

In addition to creating a light, airy atmosphere in your home that’s attractive and comforting, natural sunlight brings many benefits. Here are 5 reasons you should pull back the curtains and open the blinds to let the sunshine come in:

Happiness

Getting sunlight can combat SADs (seasonal affective disorder), especially for those who live in areas that have gloomy winter climates. Some people experience a mild form of depression due to the reduction in sunlight hours characteristic of the winter months. However, the more sunlight you allow in your home, the smaller the risk you face of suffering from SADs. In fact, sunlight naturally triggers your body to release serotonin, a hormone that can improve your mood naturally. So, if you want to be happier, pull back those window coverings and let in the sun!

Sleep Better

Your body produces melatonin, the sleepiness hormone, in darkness. However, melatonin production goes up significantly when exposed to sunlight during the day. It’s the contrast between light and dark that can help your body produce the correct amount of hormones, allowing you to fall asleep with ease each night. So, get your best beauty sleep by allowing natural light into your home every morning and turning off all the lights at night. This will give your body the cues it needs for optimal melatonin production and a great night’s sleep.

Vitamin D

One of the primary health benefits of the sun is that it boosts Vitamin D production. This essential vitamin plays a critical role in calcium absorption. So, necessarily, sunlight is right for your bone health and strength! Without Vitamin D, you can’t absorb the calcium you need. So, although too much sun can damage your skin, too little sunlight is also detrimental to your health. Take advantage of your windows to allow light in throughout the day.

It’s Green

Relying on natural sunlight instead of electricity is the green way to go. Rather than turning on your lamps and overhead lights, open up the blinds and pull back the curtains. With quality window coverings, you can control precisely how much light you let in so that you won’t get overwhelmed by the sun either. By lighting your home naturally, in addition to helping the environment, you can save on your energy bill too! Whenever possible, opt for natural lighting.

Productivity

Feeling like you’re in a slump? Try getting some sunlight! Perhaps it also has to do with the sleep and mood benefits of sunshine, but researchers have found that people report that they feel more energized and full of vitality when they enjoy some time exposed to the sun.

As you can see, there are many reasons to make sure you’re taking advantage of our planet’s favorite star. With the health, economic and environmental benefits gained from using natural sunlight in your home, there’s no excuse!

If you’re ready to allow more sunlight into your home, consider upgrading your window coverings to give yourself more control over sunlight in your home. With sheer or semi-transparent curtains and shades, you can filter the sunlight so that you gain the benefits without making things too bright.

What’s your favorite aspect of natural lighting in your home?

Need new window coverings? Contact Aero Shade to discuss the best window coverings for allowing sunlight into your home. We’ll be happy to help with your questions!